LEXAPRO SUMMARY
LEXAPRO® (escitalopram oxalate) is an orally administered selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Escitalopram is the pure S-enantiomer (single isomer) of the racemic bicyclic phthalane derivative citalopram.
LEXAPRO (escitalopram) is indicated for the following:
MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER
LEXAPRO (escitalopram) is indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder.
The efficacy of LEXAPRO in the treatment of major depressive disorder was established in three, 8-week, placebo-controlled trials of outpatients whose diagnoses corresponded most closely to the DSM-IV category of major depressive disorder (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY).
A major depressive episode (DSM-IV) implies a prominent and relatively persistent (nearly every day for at least 2 weeks) depressed or dysphoric mood that usually interferes with daily functioning, and includes at least five of the following nine symptoms: depressed mood, loss of interest in usual activities, significant change in weight and/or appetite, insomnia or hypersomnia, psychomotor agitation or retardation, increased fatigue, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, slowed thinking or impaired concentration, a suicide attempt or suicidal ideation.
The efficacy of LEXAPRO in hospitalized patients with major depressive disorders has not been adequately studied.
The efficacy of LEXAPRO in maintaining a response, in patients with major depressive disorder who responded during an 8-week, acute-treatment phase while taking LEXAPRO and were then observed for relapse during a period of up to 36 weeks, was demonstrated in a placebo-controlled trial (see Clinical Efficacy Trials under CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY). Nevertheless, the physician who elects to use LEXAPRO for extended periods should periodically re-evaluate the long-term usefulness of the drug for the individual patient (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).
GENERALIZED ANXIETY DISORDER
LEXAPRO is indicated for the treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). The efficacy of LEXAPRO was established in three, 8-week, placebo-controlled trials in patients with GAD (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY).
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (DSM-IV) is characterized by excessive anxiety and worry (apprehensive expectation) that is persistent for at least 6 months and which the person finds difficult to control. It must be associated with at least 3 of the following symptoms: restlessness or feeling keyed up or on edge, being easily fatigued, difficulty concentrating or mind going blank, irritability, muscle tension, and sleep disturbance.
The efficacy of LEXAPRO in the long-term treatment of GAD, that is, for more than 8 weeks, has not been systematically evaluated in controlled trials. The physician who elects to use LEXAPRO for extended periods should periodically re-evaluate the long-term usefulness of the drug for the individual patient.
|
